Mini Everything Bagels Flavor: Homemade Everything Bagel Bits
Skip the overpriced, overly salty store-bought blends with barely any poppy seeds. These homemade Everything Bagel Bits are bold, crunchy, fragrant, and endlessly useful—and they take just 10 minutes to make.
If you love the unmistakable flavor of an everything bagel but wish there were more seeds, more crunch, and more control, this recipe is for you. These Everything Bagel Bits are a deeply savory, toasted blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and flaky salt—balanced, aromatic, and far superior to anything you’ll find in a shaker at the store.
Sprinkle them on avocado toast, eggs, roasted vegetables, salads, popcorn, cream cheese, or yes—even chocolate chip cookies (don’t knock it until you try it). Once you make your own, you’ll never go back.
Why Homemade Everything Bagel Bits Are Better
Commercial everything bagel seasoning sounds convenient, but most blends fall short in at least one major way:
- Too much salt, not enough seeds
- Stale flavor from pre-ground ingredients
- Inconsistent texture
- Overpriced for what you get
Making your own solves all of that. You control the ratios, the salt level, and—most importantly—the freshness. Toasting the seeds releases their natural oils, transforming them from flat and dusty to nutty, warm, and intensely fragrant.
This is the difference between something that tastes “okay” and something that makes people ask, “What did you put on this?”
What Are Everything Bagel Bits?
Everything Bagel Bits are a loose, sprinkleable seasoning inspired by the classic topping found on everything bagels. Traditionally, that topping includes sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt.
This homemade version leans into:
- Texture – crunchy, toasty seeds
- Flavor balance – savory without being salty
- Versatility – works on savory and sweet foods
Think of it as a pantry staple rather than a novelty seasoning.
Everything Bagel Bits Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| White sesame seeds | 3 tablespoons | Add nutty crunch |
| Black sesame seeds | 3 tablespoons | Earthy flavor and contrast |
| Poppy seeds | 2 tablespoons | Classic everything bagel bite |
| Dried minced garlic | 2 tablespoons | Must be dried for shelf life |
| Dried minced onion | 2 tablespoons | Sweet and savory backbone |
| Flaky sea salt | 1–1½ teaspoons | Adjust to taste |
Optional Extras
- ½ teaspoon onion powder or garlic powder for extra depth
- ¼–½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for heat
- ½ teaspoon dried dill or caraway seeds for classic deli flavor
Pro Tip: Toasting the seeds is not optional if you want maximum flavor. It’s the single step that transforms this blend from ordinary to unforgettable.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Toast the Seeds
Place a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Add the white sesame seeds, black sesame seeds, and poppy seeds.
Toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the seeds are lightly golden and fragrant.
Important: Do not walk away. Seeds burn quickly and go from perfect to bitter in seconds.
Remove from heat and allow the seeds to cool completely before mixing with other ingredients.
2. Mix Everything Together
In a small bowl, combine the cooled toasted seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and flaky sea salt.
Stir thoroughly so the mixture is evenly blended. Add any optional spices at this stage and mix again.
3. Store & Enjoy
Transfer the mixture to a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months—though most batches disappear long before that.
Tips for Perfect Everything Bagel Bits
- Always use dried garlic and onion—fresh will spoil the mix
- Toast seeds every time for best aroma and crunch
- Start with 1 teaspoon salt and adjust after tasting
- Make a double batch—you’ll use it faster than you think
How to Use Everything Bagel Bits
Breakfast Favorites
- Avocado toast
- Scrambled eggs or omelets
- Hard-boiled or soft-boiled eggs
- Bagels with cream cheese
Lunch & Dinner Ideas
- Sprinkled on salads
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Pasta or rice bowls
Snack & Unexpected Uses
- Popcorn (a must-try)
- Roasted nuts
- Crackers or flatbreads
- Chocolate chip cookies (sweet-salty magic)
Why Toasting Changes Everything
Raw seeds taste mild and sometimes dusty. Toasting activates their natural oils, intensifying flavor and aroma.
When you toast seeds:
- Sesame becomes nutty and warm
- Poppy seeds gain depth and crunch
- The entire blend smells bakery-fresh
This one step is why homemade everything bagel seasoning tastes dramatically better than store-bought.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is a starting point, not a rulebook. Adjust ratios to suit your taste.
- More garlic for bold flavor
- Extra poppy seeds for crunch
- Less salt for low-sodium diets
- Spicy additions for heat lovers
The beauty of making it yourself is total control.
Storage & Shelf Life
When stored properly in an airtight container:
- Keeps up to 3 months at room temperature
- Stays freshest in a dark, cool cabinet
- Do not refrigerate—moisture reduces crunch
If the aroma fades, simply toast a fresh batch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use only one type of sesame seed?
Yes. Using both adds visual contrast, but one type works fine.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Can I grind it?
You can pulse briefly, but the texture is best left chunky.
Is it the same as store-bought?
No—it’s better, fresher, and more balanced.
Final Thoughts
These Everything Bagel Bits are proof that the simplest recipes often deliver the biggest payoff. With just a few pantry ingredients and ten minutes of effort, you get a seasoning that’s bold, versatile, and genuinely exciting to use.
Once you taste the toasted, fragrant difference, you’ll never settle for bland, salty store-bought mixes again.
Keep a jar on your counter, sprinkle it generously, and enjoy the little crunch that makes everything better.